My name is Albino Schifino, but I go by Albi. I am originally from Connecticut but have moved around a bit since starting graduate school in 2018. I currently live outside Philadelphia with my girlfriend and two dogs (Earl and Hudson). I am an exercise enthusiast, and I like spending time outside with my dogs.

What is your country of origin? What was the focus of your PhD research, and where did you earn your degree? What is your current postdoctoral project about?

I was born and raised in Connecticut. I received my PhD in kinesiology from the University of Georgia in 2023. My PhD was focused on muscle regeneration following traumatic injury; I worked mostly in preclinical models studying ways to bolster muscle regeneration.

What are your career goals, and how does your current postdoc position support your long-term career trajectory?

I would like to pursue a career outside of academia, leveraging my preclinical and clinical expertise to assist in bridging the gap from basic science to clinical applicability. At Drexel, I work in the Multiscale Neuromuscular Biomechanics Laboratory (PI: Dr. Binder-Markey). My current work is investigating the long-term effects of Botox injections on skeletal muscle structure and function. Currently, my postdoctoral research will help me network with leaders in the biomedical, biotechnology and bioengineering fields to identify the most attractive career path.

What are the key areas or issues you are most passionate about supporting through the DPA?

First, I believe we need to build a sense of community among postdoctoral researchers. Without a community of trusted peers who have similar goals, the overall impact of the DPA will remain minimal. Once the DPA has a slightly greater presence, we can re-evaluate the needs of the larger group and tailor our communal efforts to best support our members. Looking ahead, I hope we can develop programs and initiatives that provide professional development opportunities and improve the connectedness of postdoc researchers throughout Drexel’s campus.